RIVERSIDE HIGH EXPECTATIONS – We’d like to give a shoutout to the School Counseling department at Riverside High for their recent event for high school seniors. Working with community partners, they helped students complete FSCJ, military, and financial aid applications. As a result, they boosted post-secondary plans to 80%, scholarships to $6+ million, and Bright Futures to 78%! They are a shining example of how to prepare students for success after high school.
STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS – At the May School Board meeting, we recognized a group of Team Duval seniors who earned more than $50,000 in scholarships through partnerships with the district’s Nutrition Program, Chartwells K12, and Thompson Hospitality.
Through the Nutrition Program Scholarship, 10 seniors each received a one-time $5,000 award to support their post-secondary education at colleges, universities, and technical or trade schools, while two students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities received meal plan scholarships from Thompson Hospitality.
Applicants were selected based on essays promoting healthy eating habits, increasing participation in school nutrition programs, and sharing their future goals and aspirations.
Congratulations to these outstanding students for their achievements and to our partners for investing in their success.
Through the Nutrition Program Scholarship, 10 seniors each received a one-time $5,000 award to support their post-secondary education at colleges, universities, and technical or trade schools, while two students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities received meal plan scholarships from Thompson Hospitality.
Applicants were selected based on essays promoting healthy eating habits, increasing participation in school nutrition programs, and sharing their future goals and aspirations.
Congratulations to these outstanding students for their achievements and to our partners for investing in their success.
THRIVE SCHOLARS HONORED - At the May School Board meeting, we celebrated an inspiring group of students selected as Thrive Scholars, recognized for their hard work, dedication, and drive.
Thrive Scholars is a comprehensive program that supports high-achieving, low-income students of color with rigorous academic instruction, college admissions guidance, mentoring, and continued support from high school through college and into their careers. Through more than 350 hours of college-level learning and personalized support, the program is designed to help Scholars achieve lifelong economic mobility and financial security.
Congratulations to this outstanding cohort as they take the next steps toward becoming our community’s future leaders.
Thrive Scholars is a comprehensive program that supports high-achieving, low-income students of color with rigorous academic instruction, college admissions guidance, mentoring, and continued support from high school through college and into their careers. Through more than 350 hours of college-level learning and personalized support, the program is designed to help Scholars achieve lifelong economic mobility and financial security.
Congratulations to this outstanding cohort as they take the next steps toward becoming our community’s future leaders.
CINDY EDELMAN FELLOWS - At the May School Board meeting, we were proud to celebrate the newest cohort of Cindy Edelman Excellence in Teaching Fellows, who receive funding for innovative and non-traditional professional learning opportunities.
This year’s fellows will pursue projects spanning literacy, science, environmental learning, and instructional practices, including international study to support multilingual learners, the creation of outdoor agriscience learning environments, hands-on exploration of volcanic and geologic activity, and advanced training to strengthen classroom instruction.
The fellowship is administered by the Jacksonville Public Education Fund and supported by a permanent fund at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. Congratulations to this outstanding group of educators for their commitment to growing their practice and enriching learning experiences for students.
This year’s fellows will pursue projects spanning literacy, science, environmental learning, and instructional practices, including international study to support multilingual learners, the creation of outdoor agriscience learning environments, hands-on exploration of volcanic and geologic activity, and advanced training to strengthen classroom instruction.
The fellowship is administered by the Jacksonville Public Education Fund and supported by a permanent fund at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. Congratulations to this outstanding group of educators for their commitment to growing their practice and enriching learning experiences for students.
MENTAL HEALTH PSA WINNERS - Team Duval students used their voices and creativity to amplify the message of Mental Health Awareness Month through a districtwide PSA contest centered on the theme “Mindful...NOT Mind Full,” and were honored at the May School Board meeting. High school students submitted 60–90 second recordings that were evaluated on creativity, originality, technique, and overall impact.
Congratulations to our winners: first place, Atlantic Coast High School student Sena Monteith (represented by Principal Dr. Michael George); second place, Paxon students Stephen Akita, Erly Cherizar, Wyatt Miller, and Michael Spohn; and third place, Paxon students Darryl Lamar, Jasmine McGee, Emily Montelongo, and Natasha Seerattan.
We are proud of these students for creating powerful messages that inform, inspire, and resonate with our community.
Congratulations to our winners: first place, Atlantic Coast High School student Sena Monteith (represented by Principal Dr. Michael George); second place, Paxon students Stephen Akita, Erly Cherizar, Wyatt Miller, and Michael Spohn; and third place, Paxon students Darryl Lamar, Jasmine McGee, Emily Montelongo, and Natasha Seerattan.
We are proud of these students for creating powerful messages that inform, inspire, and resonate with our community.
CLASSROOM CONNECTION CREATES CONFIDENCE - Mrs. Durheim at Greenfield Elementary receives today’s Team Duval Shoutout for the care and intentionality she showed in helping a student feel confident wearing his new glasses. After noticing his hesitation, Mrs. Durheim wore her own glasses to school to model that glasses are not only okay, but cool and “impressive.” Her simple yet powerful gesture helped her student feel special and excited, and he went home eager to wear his glasses with pride. Mrs. Durheim’s ability to build classroom community and nurture student confidence exemplifies the heart of a strong kindergarten classroom. Thank you, Mrs. Durheim, for seeing every student and helping them shine!
PARENTS WHO LEAD - At the April School Board meeting, we recognized an inspiring group of parent leaders who completed a 20-week leadership program through Parents Who Lead, a partnership with the Jacksonville Public Education Fund, Kids Hope Alliance, and Jacksonville Public Library. Participants developed projects supporting student success in areas such as mental health, tutoring, family engagement, and community safety. They now join a growing network of advocates making a meaningful impact across Team Duval. We commend their dedication and invite the community to join us in celebrating their commitment to strengthening our schools and communities.
BUS DRIVER APPRECIATION – This shoutout honors Ms. Denise, the driver of Bus 862, in recognition of School Bus Driver Appreciation Day on April 28. Parent Rebekah Hutto shares that for the past five years—first at LaVilla and now at Douglas Anderson—Ms. Denise has been a trusted and caring presence in her daughter’s life, giving her peace of mind every single day. Rebekah shares that she never worries about her daughter’s safety, knowing Ms. Denise is attentive, protective, and always looking out for her students. Beyond the ride home, she goes the extra mile—showing up to plays, offering a listening ear after tough days, and making sure bus stop rules are followed to keep everyone safe. Thank you, Ms. Denise, for the care, consistency, and heart you bring to Team Duval!
STUDENTS OF THE YEAR - Congratulations to our Boys & Girls Club Students of the Year! At the April School Board meeting, we were proud to recognize two outstanding Team Duval students honored by the Boys & Girls Club of Northeast Florida: Ty’ Son Jones – Middle School Student of the Year (James Weldon Johnson CPMS) (unable to attend). And Dajdriana Brooks – High School Student of the Year (Edward H. White High School). This prestigious recognition highlights leadership, service, academic excellence, and dedication to healthy lifestyles. Dajdriana will advance to compete for Florida Youth of the Year this April. We invite the community to join us in celebrating these students and their achievements.
MATH MADNESS – Today’s shoutout goes to Gregory Drive Elementary for its interactive, math-themed March Madness night held for the community. Students and families participated in a series of math activities, including arcade basketball in the Z Cafetorium. The night wrapped up with dinner, as well as take-home activities so students could continue to strengthen their understanding at home. Here’s to the mathletes at Gregory Elementary, you rock!
MEN'S COOK-OFF - Congratulations to our 2026 Team Duval Men’s Cook-Off winner! At the April School Board meeting, we highlighted a successful and meaningful event supporting the United Way of Northeast Florida. Thanks to Team Duval, this year’s cook-off raised more than $600, contributing to over $15,000 raised districtwide. Our Back-to-Back Supreme Chef and winner: Evan Daniels, Director of GEAR UP (pictured third from right), who successfully defended his title and raised more than $200 individually. Through our partnership with United Way, we continue to support families through Full-Service Schools and create opportunities for student success. We thank everyone who contributed to the success of this event and congratulate all participants.
CLASSROOM CARING -- During the Month of the Military Child, we wanted to give a shout-out to Mrs. Mathis from Anchor Academy! Confident in each lesson she teaches, Mrs. Mathis ensures each student is ready and takes extra time and effort to make her class engaging, interesting, and fun. She has also been an incredible resource for the students of military families, being part of one herself. This Team Duval Shoutout was sent in by Emily Macias, a classroom parent, so Mrs. Mathis, know that you make a big difference inside and outside the classroom!
YOUTH SUMMIT WINNERS - Congratulations to our MedWeek Youth Entrepreneur Summit winners
At the April School Board meeting, we recognized Team Duval students who demonstrated innovation and business skills in the MED Week Youth Entrepreneur Pitch Competition, hosted by the First Coast Business Alliance. The winners are:
Roy Harvison Jr. – William M. Raines High School .
Eva Dalton, Joseph Bernier, Payton Eadie, Hailey Etchison, Sani'yah Johnson, Harmonie Keith, Jada King, Jashari Lewis, Trenton Stafford, Mya Thompson, Angelina White – Asa Philip Randolph
Makiah Scott – Westside High School
We encourage the community to join us in celebrating these talented young entrepreneurs and their promising futures.
At the April School Board meeting, we recognized Team Duval students who demonstrated innovation and business skills in the MED Week Youth Entrepreneur Pitch Competition, hosted by the First Coast Business Alliance. The winners are:
Roy Harvison Jr. – William M. Raines High School .
Eva Dalton, Joseph Bernier, Payton Eadie, Hailey Etchison, Sani'yah Johnson, Harmonie Keith, Jada King, Jashari Lewis, Trenton Stafford, Mya Thompson, Angelina White – Asa Philip Randolph
Makiah Scott – Westside High School
We encourage the community to join us in celebrating these talented young entrepreneurs and their promising futures.
DUVAL TEEN HONORED – This Team Duval Shoutout goes to Jordan Sanders, a junior at Raines High School. During March, Jordan proudly represented his district at the Leadership Conference for Top Teens of America in Nashville, Tennessee. Serving as Mr. Top Teen of America for the Duval Chapter, he partook in an enriching experience centered on leadership, community service, and personal development. Shout out to Jordan for exemplifying what it means to be a Duval student, inside and out!
STUDENT VOTER REGISTRATION - Congratulations to our Student Voter Registration Competition winners
At the April School Board meeting, we celebrated schools across Team Duval for empowering the next generation of voters, with more than 3,200 student registrations submitted during this year’s competition. Our Freedom Award Winners are: First Coast High School (Large), Terry Parker High School (Medium), and Bridge to Success Academy (Small) . The Civic Engagement Award was presented to Mandarin High School .
We extend our appreciation to the Duval County Supervisor of Elections and invite the community to join us in recognizing these schools for promoting civic engagement and student voice.
At the April School Board meeting, we celebrated schools across Team Duval for empowering the next generation of voters, with more than 3,200 student registrations submitted during this year’s competition. Our Freedom Award Winners are: First Coast High School (Large), Terry Parker High School (Medium), and Bridge to Success Academy (Small) . The Civic Engagement Award was presented to Mandarin High School .
We extend our appreciation to the Duval County Supervisor of Elections and invite the community to join us in recognizing these schools for promoting civic engagement and student voice.
MONTH OF THE MILITARY CHILD - At the April School Board meeting, we proudly recognized and celebrated the strength, resilience, and sacrifices of our military-connected students and their families. A special video message from Naval Station Mayport Commanding Officer Captain Mike Trumbull and Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier highlighted the strong partnership supporting our schools. The School Board also issued a proclamation declaring April 2026 as the Month of the Military Child and April 15 as Purple Up! For Military Kids’ Day. We invite our community to join us in honoring our military children and the important role they play.
HASLEM SELECTED FOR HARVARD EVENT – Team Duval is proud to celebrate William M. Raines High School junior Laila Haslem, who has been selected as a delegate for the Congress of Future Medical Leaders at Harvard University this summer. This prestigious opportunity will provide Laila with valuable insights, resources, and connections to support her future career in medicine. District Support Technician Willie Hall says, “This esteemed honor acts as a catalyst for aspiring medical professionals, inspiring them to pursue their ambitions.” Congratulations to Laila on this outstanding achievement—we can’t wait to celebrate her success in Boston!
CELEBRATING BRITTANY BARBATELLI – This shoutout celebrates Brittany Barbatelli (pictured far right), a VPK Teacher at Anchor Academy. Peers say that as the school’s 2025-2026 Teacher of the Year, she’s much more than an excellent instructor. She’s also the school’s professional development facilitator and works hard to help other teachers become better educators. Fellow teacher Christine Haldenwang says, “Her door is open to every teacher to ask questions, address concerns, or share celebrations. She prepares new teachers by helping strengthen their confidence and ability to think beyond what they can see. She is attentive, approachable, and dedicated to the emotional and educational journey of each student and family. She is nothing less than a true treasure found at Anchor Academy.”
CELEBRATING ASSISTANT PRINCIPALS – We’re grateful for our incredible assistant principals! Every day, our APs go above and beyond to support our schools, staff, and students. They step in wherever they’re needed — whether guiding instruction, supporting teachers, or building strong connections with families. They are often the calm in the storm, the problem-solvers behind the scenes, and the people who help keep our schools moving forward — ensuring that Duval Delivers! We appreciate our APs for their commitment to helping our schools thrive!
NATIONAL PTA AWARD – Team Duval proudly recognizes Susan Phillips of Chets Creek Elementary School for receiving the National PTA Life Achievement Award, the highest honor from the National PTA. Beginning her journey at Chets Creek 28 years ago as a Kindergarten teacher, Phillips has grown into the role of principal, leading the school to maintain an A rating for 24 years. She has devoted countless hours supporting students, families, staff, and PTA activities, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire—even the current PTA president is a former student. Congratulations to Ms. Phillips for this remarkable achievement and her enduring impact on the Chets Creek community.
